The Link Between Diabetes and Alzheimer’s

September 11, 2019

Diabetes is associated with increased risk of illness throughout the body, from cardiovascular disease to foot problems. But growing evidence is revealing a link to Alzheimer’s, as well. The two diseases appear to be related even in their mildest forms: Not only is Type 2 Diabetes associated with Alzheimer’s, but pre-diabetes is associated with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Studies have uncovered at least one specific insulin receptor pathway that is associated with the brain pathologies present in the Alzheimer’s brain.

A new study takes this research one step further, showing this connection may have immediate clinical implications. The study, published in the journal PLOS One, has confirmed that medically controlling diabetes is associated with fewer brain changes at the molecular level in people with Alzheimer’s.

Prof. Vahram Haroutunian, one of the study’s authors, notes that this new method of treatment may prove more successful than others. “Most modern Alzheimer’s treatments target amyloid plaques and haven’t succeeded in effectively treating the disease,” he said.

If this method proves itself, it will likely find its way to patient more quickly than other new treatments, since diabetes medications are already approved by the FDA, and are already known to be safe.

At Atlantic Coast Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, in Lakewood, NJ, we follow Alzheimer’s research with great interest, and take pride in our Alzheimer’s Unit. While effective prevention and treatment for Alzheimer’s and other dementias are still in the future, we offer our residents and their families the comfort in knowing that we are doing everything possible to help our memory-impaired residents maximize cognitive function, and enhance their enjoyment of life.

As part of providing care that is specifically designed to address the needs of individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive disorders, Atlantic Coast offers a separate secure unit. Its wide corridors are homelike and easy to navigate, creating an environment with a sense of familiarity and security.

The Alzheimer’s unit caregivers are specially trained to care for memory impaired residents. With their extra sensitivity and understanding of the condition and its impact, our caregivers treat each resident with dignity and love.

The cognitively impaired care program helps patients maximize their cognitive function. Likewise, the activities program is designed to foster social interaction and an appreciation of life.

For patients in more advanced stages, innovative sensory therapies such as audiovisual stimuli and aromatherapy are beneficial in inducing a sense of calm.